Melbourne East Disability Advocacy - MEDA

10/09/2026

Today is R U OK Day!

There is a lot of change and uncertainty in our communities at the moment.

For people with an intellectual disability and their families, changes to the NDIS and other supports can bring questions and worry about what comes next.

You do not have to face these changes alone. It's important that lived experience voices and concerns can be heard - especially when decisions are being made about their lives and supports.

During times like these, it’s important to look after yourself and look out for each other.

Take time to check in with the people around you and ask Are you OK? Listen, and let them know you are there.

And remember, it’s OK to not feel OK.

You can connect with support services and information on The R U OK website: https://www.ruok.org.au/findhelp

27/08/2026

The NDIS changes have passed Parliament. Now our focus turns to what happens next.

We know many people with disability and families are worried about what the changes could mean for their supports.

You might be wondering: Will my plan change? What happens if my funding is reduced? Can I challenge an NDIA decision? Who can help me?

You don’t need to have all those answers today.

We’ve put together a practical guide with information about independent disability advocacy, reviews and appeals, legal support, and steps you can take if an NDIA decision affects you.

Importantly, the changes will be rolled out in stages. The legislation passing does not mean everyone’s supports change overnight.

But as the changes begin, knowing your rights and knowing where to turn for independent help will matter.

Keep records. Ask questions. Check your review rights. Seek independent advice early if something doesn’t seem right.

And keep telling us what you’re experiencing.

The NDIS exists because people with disability, families and supporters came together and demanded something better. That same community will be essential to making sure the NDIS remains fair, transparent and centred on people with disability.

👉 Read our guide: https://everyaustraliancounts.com.au/ndis-changes-have-passed-heres-where-to-get-help-if-youre-affected/

And join us for our Protect Our NDIS Community Debrief, where we’ll come together to unpack what happened and talk about what comes next.

📅 Friday 28 August
⏰ 12pm AEST
💻 Online via Zoom
🔗 Register: https://events.humanitix.com/after-the-vote-ndis-community-debrief

[Image description: Graphic with the text, “NDIS changes have passed. Here’s where to get help if you’re affected.” The Every Australian Counts logo appears at the bottom, with five colourful icons across the top representing communication, information, rights, people and protection.]

10/08/2026

Our August newsletter is now live! Check out what we've been up to over the last few months:
https://mailchi.mp/38cce842503e/august-newsletter-10344066

06/08/2026

*NDIS update*

Cyber criminals have used myGov to gain access to some NDIS accounts through phishing activity and by persuading people to voluntarily provide login details.

How to keep yourself safe:

✅ Check your NDIS account regularly.

✅ Check your bank account for anything unusual.

✅ Do not click on links in unexpected texts or emails.

✅ Do not give anyone your password or security code.

✅ Change your passwords regularly.

✅ Use extra security on your accounts if you can.

If you think you have been scammed, call the Scams and Identity Theft Helpdesk:

Phone: 1800 941 126

Hours: Monday to Friday, 8.00 am to 5.00 pm (AEST)

They can help if:

You clicked on a suspicious link.

You gave someone your myGov details.

You think someone has stolen your identity.

You visited a fake myGov or Services Australia website.

Report a scam

If you receive a scam pretending to be Services Australia, Centrelink, Medicare, Child Support, or myGov:

Take a screenshot.

Email it to [email protected].

Give feedback or make a complaint

Services Australia Feedback and Complaints Line

Phone: 1800 132 468

Hours: Monday to Friday, 8.00 am to 5.00 pm

Options:

Press 1 for Centrelink

Press 2 for Child Support

Press 3 for Medicare

Report suspected fraud

If you think someone is cheating Centrelink, Medicare, or Child Support:

Phone: 131 524

Hours: Monday to Friday, 8.00 am to 5.00 pm (AEST)

Remember: The NDIS, myGov and Services Australia will never ask you to send your password or security code by text message. If you are unsure, stop and ask for help.

04/08/2026

Help shape inclusive physical activity!
Join the Connect to Move project and co-design a physical activity navigator program for adults with intellectual disability. Follow the link to find our more and register your interest:

Prof Leanne Hassett (USyd lead), Prof Nora Shields (LTU lead), Ms Jenni Cole (World ParaVolley), Dr Phil Hamdorf (ASAPD), Prof Benjamin Smith (USyd), A/Prof Gillian Nisbet (USyd), Dr Katherine Lawler (LTU), Prof Catherine Sherrington (USyd), Dr Che Fornusek (USyd), Prof Jennifer Smith-Merry (USyd),....

17/07/2026

Murnong First Peoples Gathering Place welcomes mob, allies and accomplices to sleepout in the Wominjeka Garden in Glen Iris on Friday 31 July. Join Uncle Glenn at Murnong’s annual sleepout to Keep the Fires Burning, sharing stories and building connections, as well as raising funds to implement programs for their community. Share the fire, yarn, and hopefully catch a little sleep as well!
People unable to stay overnight can support Murnong by sponsoring Uncle Glenn’s sleepout.

Murnong welcomes mob, allies and accomplices to sleepout in our Wominjeka Garden. This event is about sharing stories as well as raising funds for our programs.

12/07/2026

As MEDA marks NAIDOC Week 5th - 12th July, we take time to recognise and celebrate the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and to reflect on the role each of us plays in advancing reconciliation.
The theme for 2026 is "50 Years of Deadly." This milestone year marks five decades of the NAIDOC movement, honoring the Elders, organizers, artists, and communities who have championed First Nations culture and advocacy.
For us here in Victoria and for MEDA, this is also a moment to slow down and listen, to the strength, leadership and resilience of First Nations communities, and to consider how we can show up in a more thoughtful, respectful, and consistent way in our work and relationships.
We are committed to turning this reflection into action, whether that’s through learning, engagement, or creating more culturally safe spaces across the organisation. I hope you will join us in celebrating NAIDOC week.

11/07/2026

Thank you to everyone who supported MEDA's End of Financial Year Appeal and helped us celebrate 45 years of promoting and protecting the rights of people with intellectual disability.
Together, we raised an amazing $4,205. Your generosity helps ensure we can continue standing alongside people with disability, providing advocacy, and creating positive change in our community.
Thank you for celebrating this milestone with us and for investing in the future of MEDA.
If you didn't get the chance to donate during our EOFY Appeal, it's not too late. Donations can be made at any time, and every contribution helps us continue promoting and protecting the rights of people with intellectual disability. Thank you for your ongoing support.
https://meda.org.au/donate-or-bequest/online-donation/

30/06/2026

It’s your last chance to make a meaningful end-of-financial-year donation to MEDA. Help us continue to advocate alongside people with intellectual disability by giving $45 in celebration of 45 years of service to the Melbourne East community. Every contribution counts, and your donation is tax deductible.
https://meda.org.au/donate-or-bequest/online-donation/

25/06/2026

Don’t forget to apply for the 20% rebate on your vehicle registration before 31 July!
Visit Service Australia: https://service.vic.gov.au/rego-rebate